Thousands of pounds have been raised for a soldiers’ charity at a gruelling CrossFit challenge.

The event, which took place at CrossFit gym in Darlington, was held in memory of Royal Marine Owen Wason who lost his battle with PTSD in 2016, following two tours of Afghanistan.

His brother Ash Wason, a payroll officer, and Nikki Butt, operations director at family business Resource Management Solutions (RMS) took part in the challenging ‘CrossFit Heroes’ Workout’ which raised more than £2,143 for PTSD Resolution – a charity which supports veterans experiencing psychological difficulties.

Ash and Nikki described the workout as “brutal but worth it, and all for a good cause.”

Owen’s son, five-year-old George, wore a ‘I love my daddy’ t-shirt and cheered on competitors.

Owen’s mother and managing director of RMS, Carole Martin, said: “It was a brilliant event and a huge thank you to Marc and Rachel Barras and everyone at the gym for making it happen. Owen was loved by so many and is always in our thoughts. Honouring Owen in this way, helping other veterans, would make him immensely proud.”

There was a raffle with prizes including Amazon Echo Dots, a spa day and Love2Shop vouchers, as well as a cake sale at the event which took place on February 26.

Colonel Tony Gauvain, chairman of PTSD Resolution, said: “We are very grateful to Nikki, Ash and RMS and their excellent challenge event in memory of Royal Marine Owen Wason. This will fund at least two armed force’s veterans or their family members in their recovery to a normal work and family life.

“PTSD Resolution is a charity providing personal therapy online and in-person, that is free, local, prompt and effective. It is with the support of RMS and other organisations that help us that we can meet the challenge of military trauma in the community, and help to save lives.”

RMS finds employment opportunities for veterans. To learn about jobs or employing a veteran, contact Rob Colgrave on 01325 389333